Canadian Soldier on Canadian Paralympic Sledge Hockey Team

Today Corporal Dominic Larocque is with the Canadian National Sledge Hockey Team in Sochi, Russia as the Canadian Army's first-ever competitor at the Winter Paralympic Games. The team is preparing for their first game tomorrow against Sweden.

Representing Canada in the Paralympics is a significant accomplishment for Cpl Larocque, and a milestone in his recovery and rehabilitation. He is the first member of the Canadian Armed Forces' Soldier On program to be selected to participate in the Paralympic Winter Games.

The Sochi 2014 sledge hockey competition will conclude with the medal games being played on March 15.

Quick Facts

Cpl Larocque had his left leg amputated above the knee after his vehicle struck an IED while on patrol in Afghanistan in 2007.

Following an extensive rehabilitation period, Cpl Larocque joined the Soldier On program and was introduced to the sport of sledge hockey.

Soldier On was founded in 2006 to empower serving and former members of the Canadian Armed Forces with an illness or injury, both visible and non-visible. In this program participants begin to accept their "new normal" by adopting an active lifestyle through participation in physical, recreational and sporting activities.

Cpl Larocque joined the national sledge hockey team in 2010 and has helped Canada to numerous international successes, including the world title in 2013.

Cpl Larocque is a member of the Royal 22e Régiment in Valcartier, Quebec. He is a resident of Shannon, Quebec and is originally from Quebec City.

Quotes

"On behalf of the entire Defence Team, I congratulate Dominic on being named to the national team and wish him and his new teammates the best of luck at the XI Winter Paralympic Games in Sochi."

"Corporal Larocque, the first ever Canadian Army soldier to participate in a Winter Paralympic Games, exemplifies the commitment, dedication and perseverance of our men and women in uniform. I am extremely proud of Corporal Larocque, who, in the face of adversity, has remained strong, proud and ready to embrace a new challenge. To all of us, he is a clear reminder of what is possible when we allow ourselves to dream. I wish him and his team the best of success in these Games."

Lieutenant-General Marquis Hainse, Commander of the Canadian Army

"In 2010 I had the opportunity to visit Vancouver and attend the Paralympics which really inspired me. I decided there, that I would like to be part of the national team in Sochi. I am extremely proud and excited that my dream has become a reality."